bedbug

noun

bed·​bug ˈbed-ˌbəg How to pronounce bedbug (audio)
: a wingless bloodsucking hemipterous bug (especially Cimex lectularius) sometimes infesting houses and especially beds and feeding on human blood

Illustration of bedbug

Illustration of bedbug

Examples of bedbug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Traveler Options In cases of unsanitary conditions—including bedbug infestations—travelers have options for filing complaints. Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025 From comments about the fall 2023 bedbug outbreak in Paris, as recorded in news reports. Harper's Magazine, 2 Jan. 2024 What To Know Tenants named in the lawsuit describe the toll of bedbugs: sleepless nights, allergic reactions, and social isolation caused by infestations. Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 7 Jan. 2025 This article discusses what bedbug bites look like, are options for bedbug bites, and how to get rid of a bedbug infestation in your home. Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 11 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for bedbug

Word History

First Known Use

1708, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bedbug was in 1708

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Cite this Entry

“Bedbug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bedbug. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

bedbug

noun
bed·​bug ˈbed-ˌbəg How to pronounce bedbug (audio)
: a wingless bloodsucking bug sometimes infesting houses and especially beds

Medical Definition

bedbug

noun
bed·​bug ˈbed-ˌbəg How to pronounce bedbug (audio)
: a wingless bloodsucking bug (Cimex lectularius) sometimes infesting houses and especially beds and feeding on human blood

called also chinch

More from Merriam-Webster on bedbug

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